At the Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, our dentists are known for creating stunning smile makeovers with porcelain veneers. See examples in our smile gallery.

Below is a question from a patient of another dental practice about the Lumineers brand of porcelain veneers and whether or not it’s related to weight gain.

I got Lumineers® in June of this year. Since then, I’ve gained 22 pounds. If I had any idea that I would gain this much weight after getting porcelain veneers, I would not have gotten them. Although I spoke with my dentist about what to expect if I got the smile makeover, not once did she mention weight gain.

I’m wondering if there is some kind of chemical used in the process that is stimulating my appetite. My dentist swears this isn’t a known side effect, so why is it happening? Is this common with your patients who get Lumineers?

I don’t really like the way they look anyway. Also, one of my left-side veneers has fallen off twice and another is loose. So if they all have to be removed I won’t be overly upset about it. I’m more concerned about all of this weight I’m gaining. Have you seen weight gain as a side effect of Lumineers? Thanks. K.W.

Response:

Dear K.W.

There is no known association between the process of getting Lumineers—or any other brand of porcelain veneers—and weight gain. However, there are reasons many skilled cosmetic dentist don’t recommend the Lumineers® brand. You mentioned that you don’t like the look of your Lumineers and that one of them has fallen off twice. We’ve heard similar complaints from patients of other practices who received this brand. Improper bonding techniques can cause porcelain veneers to loosen or fall off.

Why Many Cosmetic Dentist’s Don’t Use Lumineers

Many expert cosmetic dentists, including our dentists at Atlanta Center for Cosmetic Dentistry, have concerns about Lumineers and prefer other brands. Weight gain is not a related concern. However, some concerns include:

  • The DenMat® laboratory that makes Lumineers are not known for creating natural-looking variations of color and translucence.
  • They can make your teeth look bulky or pasty.
  • It’s hard to conceal dark or discolored teeth with this brand and maintain a natural look.

As the photos below reveal, our cosmetic dentists produce amazing results with Pearls, our ultra-thin veneers.

Seven Common Causes of Weight Gain

Although Lumineers don’t cause weight gain, other factors can. The timing of your weight gain in relation to when you received veneers is likely a coincidence. Speak with your primary care doctor to help you identify the real cause. Common causes of weight gain include:

  1. Stress
  2. Certain medications
  3. Lack of sufficient exercise
  4. Decreased metabolism
  5. Certain medical conditions
  6. Inadequate nutrition
  7. Increased social activity that is centered around eating

Concerns About the Quality of Your Lumineers?

We welcome you to schedule an appointment for a second opinion with one of our cosmetic dentists to address the concerns you expressed about your Lumineers. We would be happy to take a look and help you determine the cause of your displeasure and what options are available.  We’ll also explain your options.